[WATCH] Newcastle Mayor adopts struggling family on Youth Day
Newcastle Mayor, Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba believes the spirit of Ubuntu continues to flourish in South Africa.
Since the national lockdown was announced, Newcastle Mayor, Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba has committed to providing relief to struggling families in the beautiful and picturesque area where Normandien farms is situated.
This Youth Day, Cllr Mahlaba spent the day with the Hadebe family, who live along the D96 District Road.
Cllr Mahlaba said the following:
“A few weeks ago I drove to the beautiful and picturesque area of Normandien Farms in Newcastle. The breathtaking scenery and hidden utopia is a far cry from the conditions confronting some members of the community daily, mostly due to the impact of Covid-19. Close friends, including the MEC of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Sipho Hlomuka joined this initiative. We purchased food items for these families, so they can get through these difficult times unscathed.”
During the food distribution programme, Cllr Mahlaba met the Hadebe family.
“I was moved by the unbearable conditions confronting this family. Around 18 family members share a two bedroom home, most of them young children. We couldn’t sit back and watch them suffer.”
Cllr Mahlaba returned to the Hadebe home yesterday (June 16) to spend time with the family and share a meal together.
“I also saw the immediate need to purchase warm winter clothes for the children.”
He has since promised to use his personal funds to build a home for the Hadebe family and promised to call upon his close friends to lend a hand where they can.
WATCH a portion of the visit below:
Video compiled and submitted by the Newcastle Municipality Communications Department.
“During this season of colds and flu, the children have had access to my medical practice for routine check-ups. The culture and tradition of our wonderful Newcastle community is to assist the struggling neighbour until they can help themselves. The spirit of Ubuntu which was bestowed upon us by the late President Nelson Mandela continues to flourish. The impeccable work done by NGOs and businesses in this community during the Covid-19 lockdown period is incredible, and for that I thank you all.”
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Cllr Mahlaba further reiterated that the fearless youth of 1976 has left society with an important mission; to look after the needy and vulnerable youth in our society.
“As a leader, one can never be at peace knowing that there is a family needing proper shelter, clothing and food, especially a child-headed home. We can never betray the aspiration and vision of the youth who fought gallantly for this freedom that we enjoy today. Most importantly, as government we serve at the behest of the community and not ourselves. I felt it’s important to share this with you, not for self-gratification or a pat on the back, but to highlight the importance of sharing during times of uncertainty.”
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